Cleaning device with liquid reservoir and replaceable non-woven pad

ABSTRACT

A cleaning system for selective wet or dry cleaning is disclosed. The cleaning system includes a handle defining a fluid reservoir retaining cradle and a moveably attached support member configured to receive a cleaning implement. The pivotal arrangement of the handle and support member allow liquid to be selectively applied to either the surface to be cleaned or the cleaning implement.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present invention relates to the field of cleaning devices such ashand held dusters and dust mops. More particularly, the presentinvention relates to a cleaning system having a handle defining a cradlefor receiving a fluid reservoir attached to a support arm for mounting acleaning implement, the entire system capable of either wet, damp or drycleaning or dusting.

2. Discussion of the Related Art

For decades, hand held feather dusters, dust rags and other cleaningimplements have been used as cleaning tools for the removal of dustadhering to furniture such as dressers and coffee tables, electricalappliances such as computers, lights, interior walls, lintels and thelike. Thus, it is generally well known to remove dust or dirt fromfloors, furniture, and other household surfaces by rubbing a dust rag,cloth or other cleaning implement against the surface such that the dustor dirt adheres to the cleaning implement.

Throughout the last half-century, new cleaning implements have beendeveloped to assist the individual in dusting and similar cleaningchores. While hand held dusters and other cleaning implements aregenerally well known in the art, numerous drawbacks exist with thecurrent commercially available designs. For example, U.S. applicationPub. Ser. No. US 2004/0034956 A1, U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,813,801, 5,953,784and 6,550,092, hereby expressly incorporated by reference, disclosevariations of hand held cleaning devices incorporating a disposablecleaning pad. These devices, while somewhat suitable for the desiredapplication, exhibit notable limitations. For example, none of theabove-cited references provide a convenient storage configuration.Rather, in order to store most prior art hand held cleaning implements,the handle must be physically disassembled from its cleaning pad supportmember. Additionally, the attachment portions of these known devicesoften comprise a press fitted member that may weaken over time resultingin the support member disengaging from the handle portion duringcleaning.

In addition, a suitable retention means has not been developed toadequately maintain the cleaning pad on the support member, duringdusting or other cleaning. For example, the handy mop disclosed in U.S.application Pub. Ser. No. US 2004/0034956 A1, discloses arcuateprotrusions along the lateral sides of the parallel attachment plates.The arched surfaces and spacing of these protrusions does not alwaysadequately maintain the dust pad on the plates during cleaning. As oneperforms the normal dusting or cleaning motion, the pad often slides offthe plates.

In general, the majority of improvements to hand held dusters and mopshave been directed at improving the basic mechanical components of thecleaning device. These improvements have been directed at providing aninexpensive yet robust implement for dry dusting or cleaning. However,notably absent in the prior art is any attempt to provide a hand heldcleaning implement that allows for selective wet, damp or dry dusting.

The addition of water or other cleaning solution to most cleaning padsor systems has been known to increase the efficiency of the cleaningdevice in absorbing dust and other debris. Despite this knowledge, thereare presently no hand held cleaning systems that include an attachedwater or cleaning fluid reservoir accessible on the cleaning implementto allow a user to single handedly alternate between wet, damp or drydusting. To date, prior art dusting and cleaning devices require a userto obtain a separate spray bottle or other liquid application means ifone desires wet dusting or cleaning.

In light of the need for a wet or damp dusting or cleaning system, thereis an additional need for improvements in the cloth associated with suchsystems. Many of the known disposable dusting or cleaning cloths includefabrics that do not adequately absorb water and dust. While someimprovements to dusting cloths are disclosed in the art, there remains aneed for an improved cleaning fiber and orientation that maximizes thewet and dry absorbency of the dusting pad, while at the same time fullyfacilitating the advantages of the liquid in the cleaning system.

SUMMARY AND OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION

Consistent with the foregoing, and in accordance with the invention asembodied and broadly described herein, a cleaning system, and a methodof using and manufacturing such a system are disclosed in suitabledetail to enable one of ordinary skill in the art to make and use theinvention.

In one preferred embodiment, a cleaning tool includes a handle portionhaving a top, a bottom defining a cradle, a centrally placed openingallowing access to the cradle and a cleaning pad support member moveablyattached to the handle portion. In another embodiment, the supportmember is moveable between a first cleaning position a second cleaningpad liquid application position, and a third storage position. In yetanother embodiment, the cleaning tool includes a detachable cleaningfluid dispenser within the cradle. The cleaning fluid dispenser may be,for example, a pump spray bottle, can or package, or an aerosol bottle,can or package, a deformable handle/reservoir that dispenses fluid bysqueezing a handle, a reservoir with squirt trigger, or a flexible pouchwith an attachable spray nozzle. In yet another embodiment, the cleaningtool includes parallel attachment members that include at least onevertically extending cleaning pad retaining tab projecting from an uppersurface of the attachment members.

In still another alternative embodiment, the cleaning pad support memberincludes a circular pivot member at one end that is configured to fitwithin a pivot member-receiving cradle within the handle portion. Thecircular pivot member may include a plurality of notches and the handlemay include a semi-flexible engagement tab projecting downward into thepivot member-receiving cradle. This could also be a type of livinghinge. Such a configuration eliminates the need for additional partssuch as springs, fasteners, thereby reducing the cost of manufacture andassembly. The engagement tab is configured to fit within the notches forselective pivoting of the cleaning support member. In an alternativeembodiment, the pivot member includes a first notch corresponding to acleaning position, a second notch corresponding to a liquid applicationposition, and a third notch corresponding to a storage position. Theinteraction between the notches and engagement tab produce an auditoryclick signaling a user that the support arm is in one of the functionalpositions.

In yet another preferred embodiment, the fluid dispenser includes aspray cap configured to align the fluid dispenser within the cradle. Thecap may include flats and the cradle may comprise a pair of opposedflanges such that the flanges align the cap within the cradle viaselective engagement with the opposed flats.

In another preferred embodiment, the cleaning tool includes a cleaningpad that is comprised of a combination of fibers and at least onenonwoven sheet. The fibers on the cleaning pad may be tapered in amanner such that when the cleaning pad is attached to the support, thefibers closest the handle are shorter than the fibers closest to a freeend of the support member. The fibers may be constructed of a polymerthat allows for the spontaneous transport of aqueous fluids. Preferably,the fibers are in the form of a tow and are non-cylindrical or lobed.

In an alternative embodiment, a cleaning system includes a cleaning toolhaving a handle defining an interior recess for receiving a fluidreservoir and a cleaning media support pivotally attached to the handle.The support is capable of pivoting rearwardly from a cleaning position.The system preferably further includes a cleaning media attached to thecleaning media support and a fluid reservoir attached to the handle inthe cradle. The reservoir is capable of applying fluid to a surface tobe cleaned and to the surface of the cleaning media.

In yet another embodiment of the present invention, a replaceablecleaning pad for use with a cleaning tool having vertically extendingprotrusions includes a combination of fibers and at least one nonwovensheet.

In another preferred embodiment, a replaceable spray dispenser for usein a cleaning tool that includes a handle portion defining a cradle onthe interior of the handle configured to receive the spray dispenserincludes a cap that has a pair of opposed flats configured to fit withina pair of rails within the cradle thereby preventing twisting of thespray dispenser. The flats can be parallel or tapered.

The preferred cleaning kit includes a handle defining a cleaning fluidreservoir-receiving bay, a cleaning pad support pivotally attached tothe handle, a cleaning pad with two useable surfaces having acombination of fibers and at least one nonwoven sheet and a fluidreservoir attached to the handle within the bay. The fluid reservoirincludes opposed grooves configured to align the spray cap within thereceiving bay.

The preferred method of cleaning includes providing a cleaning toolhaving a handle having a top and bottom and an opening allowing accessinto the bottom from the top and a cleaning pad support pivotallyattached to the handle portion. The method further includes the steps ofplacing a cleaning pad onto the cleaning pad support, inserting a fluiddispenser into the fluid dispenser cradle, positioning the cleaning padonto a surface to be cleaned and moving the cleaning pad on the surfaceto be cleaned.

The method of manufacturing the preferred cleaning tool includes forminga handle having two parts, a top and bottom, that define a cavity and anopening configured to allow access into the bottom from the top andpivotally attaching a cleaning pad support to the handle portion.Alternatively, a one piece shell could be utilized.

In another embodiment, a device for cleaning a surface includes ahandle, a pivot joint connected to the handle and a cleaning headportion connected to the pivot joint and capable of folding beneath thehandle for ease of storage and packaging. The cleaning head portion canbe made to pivot in a variety of directions to allow use of either sideof the cloth.

In another embodiment a cleaning tool for wet, damp or dry cleaningincludes a handle portion defining a cradle for a fluid reservoir and acleaning implement support member attached to the handle portion. Thecleaning implement support member may be movably attached to the handleportion. The cleaning implement support member may include a circularpivot member at one end, configured to fit within a pivot memberreceiving cavity in the handle portion. The circular pivot member mayinclude a plurality of notches and the handle may include asemi-flexible engagement tab projecting downward into the pivot memberreceiving cavity, the engagement tab configured to fit within thenotches for selective pivoting of the cleaning support member. In oneembodiment, the engagement of the semi-flexible engagement tab into thenotches produces an auditory signal to let the user know it is properlylocked in place.

In another embodiment, the pivot point on the handle portion is locatedbelow a horizontal plane defined by a fluid reservoir within the cradle.Here, the fluid reservoir within the handle may complete anergonomically beneficial design of the handle.

In a final embodiment, a cleaning system for wet, damp or dry cleaningincludes an ergonomic handle portion, a cleaning media support armattached to the handle portion, a cleaning media attached to the supportarm and a liquid delivery system capable of delivering a cleaning liquidto the cleaning media or a surface to be cleaned. The liquid deliverysystem may be a fluid reservoir that forms the handle portion.

These, and other, aspects and objects of the present invention will bebetter appreciated and understood when considered in conjunction withthe following description and the accompanying drawings. It should beunderstood, however, that the following description, while indicatingpreferred embodiments of the present invention, is given by way ofillustration and not of limitation. Many changes and modifications maybe made within the scope of the present invention without departing fromthe spirit thereof, and the invention includes all such modifications.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A clear conception of the advantages and features constituting thepresent invention, and of the construction and operation of typicalmechanisms provided with the present invention, will become more readilyapparent by referring to the exemplary, and therefore non-limiting,embodiments illustrated in the drawings accompanying and forming a partof this specification, wherein like reference numerals designate thesame elements in the several views, and in which:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a first embodiment of an assembledcleaning system capable of wet or dry cleaning, the cleaning systemshown in a first cleaning position or 9 o'clock position;

FIG. 2 is an exploded perspective view of the component parts of thecleaning system illustrated in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a side view of the cleaning system in the storage position or3 o'clock position;

FIG. 4 is a side view of the cleaning system in the liquid applicationposition or 5 o'clock position with the cleaning pad support and a humanfinger shown in phantom;

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of the underside of the cleaning systemillustrating a preferred construction of the fluid-receiving cradle;

FIG. 6 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the cleaning system takenalong the longitudinal axis of the device illustrated FIGS. 1-5;

FIG. 7 is a sectional view taken along line 5-5 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a sectional view taken along line 6-6 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 9 is a sectional view taken along line 7-7 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 10 is side view of a cleaning system in the liquid applicationposition further illustrating an alternative embodiment of the cleaningpad attached to the cleaning system;

FIG. 11 is an exploded partial perspective view of the pivot assembly ofthe inventive cleaning system illustrated in FIGS. 1-5;

FIG. 12 is an exploded perspective view of the component parts of analternative embodiment of the cleaning system; and

FIG. 13 is a vertical cross-sectional view of the alternative cleaningsystem illustrated in FIG. 12 taken along the longitudinal axis of thesystem.

In describing the preferred embodiment of the invention, which isillustrated in the drawings, specific terminology will be resorted tofor the sake of clarity. However, it is not intended that the inventionbe limited to the specific terms so selected and it is to be understoodthat each specific term includes all technical equivalents, whichoperate in a similar manner to accomplish a similar purpose. Forexample, the word connected or terms similar thereto are often used.They are not limited to direct connection but include connection throughother elements where such connection is recognized as being equivalentby those skilled in the art.

DESCRIPTION OF PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present invention and the various features and advantageous detailsthereof are explained more fully with reference to the non-limitingembodiments described in detail in the following description.

1. System Overview

In a basic form, the invention is a cleaning system for use in wet, dampor dry cleaning that includes a fluid reservoir or liquid deliverysystem, and a cleaning pad support head capable of supporting a cleaningpad or other cleaning implement. The cleaning pad support head may bemoveable and in the illustrated embodiment includes a pivotableconnection. The cleaning system allows for fluid application directly toa cleaning pad or to a surface to be cleaned. The cleaning systempreferably includes a cleaning tool that includes a handle that definesa fluid reservoir receiving cradle and a pivotally attached cleaning padsupport member. This results in a single hand operated tool thatprovides options for wet, damp or dry cleaning not available intraditional cleaning devices.

2. Detailed Description of Preferred Embodiments

Specific embodiments of the present invention will now be furtherdescribed by the following, non-limiting examples which will serve toillustrate various features of significance. The examples are intendedmerely to facilitate an understanding of ways in which the presentinvention may be practiced and to further enable those of skill in theart to practice the present invention. Accordingly, the below examplesshould not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.

Turning initially to FIGS. 1 and 2, the inventive cleaning system 20 isillustrated according to one preferred embodiment of the presentinvention. Cleaning system 20 is generally comprised of a cleaning tool22, including a handle portion or handle 24 and pivotally attachedcleaning pad support member, cleaning implement support member orcleaning media support 26, a liquid delivery system, cleaning fluiddispenser or reservoir 30 and a cleaning pad or cleaning media 28attached to the cleaning tool 22 via the cleaning pad support member 26.

Handle portion 24 is preferably a curved ergonomically designed memberconfigured to comfortably fit within the palm of a hand of a user.Handle portion 24 includes an integral top 29, first sidewall 21 a,second sidewall 21 b, rear wall 23 and bottom 31. Handle portion 24 maybe constructed from a variety of synthetic resins, plastics or othersuitable materials. In the preferred embodiment, handle portion 24 isconstructed from polypropelene. Although the handle portion 24 may beconstructed in a wide variety of sizes depending on the intended use, inthe preferred embodiment, handle portion 24 is approximately 8.5 incheslong, 1.3 inches wide and 1.7 inches high. The preferred dimensionsallows for ease of use, manipulation, packaging, shipping and storage ofthe cleaning system 20 as well as increasing the overall ergnomics ofthe design. Handle portion 24 may be constructed in a variety of colorsfor increased aesthetic appeal. It may additionally be constructed froma translucent material.

As will be described in greater detail below, handle portion 24 definesa fluid reservoir-receiving cradle, recess or bay 36. In the preferredembodiment, the insertion of the fluid dispenser or reservoir 30 intothe cradle 36 finishes the ergonomic design or form of the handleportion 24. Thus, the palm of a user's hand extends over the top 29handle portion 24 and the user's fingers extend at least partiallyaround the fluid reservoir 30. Additionally, the preferred curvedergonomic design of the of the handle portion 24 is constructed in amanner such that the pivot point defined by the pivot member receivingcavity 50 is located below the horizontal plane defined by the fluidreservoir 30 within the cradle 36. Such an orientation is advantageousin maximizing fluid application as discussed in greater detail below.

Near the center of the handle portion 24 is an opening or hole 32extending through handle portion 24 into the bottom 31 of the handleportion. In the illustrated embodiment, opening 32 is approximately 2.5inches from a pivot member receiving cavity 50 located at the forwardend 25 of the handle portion 24. As illustrated in FIG. 4, opening 32provides a user single-handed access into a fluid reservoir-receivingcradle, recess or bay 36 defined in the bottom 31 of the handle portion24. Near the forward end 25 of the handle portion 24, above the pivotmember receiving cavity 50 is a cantilevered pivot engagement tab 38,extending downwardly into the pivot member receiving cavity 50 describedin greater detail below.

FIG. 2 illustrates one preferred embodiment of a fluid reservoir 30 ofthe cleaning system 20. In the illustrated embodiment, fluid reservoir30 is in the form of a fluid dispenser or a pump-activated spray bottleconfigured to retain water or a specialized fluid. The fluid may becomprised of a variety of known products. Preferably the fluid isselected from the commercially available Pledge® Multi-Surface Cleaner,Pledge® Wood and Glass Cleaner, End Dust®, Fantastic® all purposecleaner, Windex® glass cleaner, anti-bacterials such as Oust® or Lysol®,fragrances such as Glade®, leather or vinyl treatment such as ArmorAll®, fabric protectors such as Scotch Guard®, or fabric fresheners suchas those manufactured by S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. of Racine, Wis., orFabreze®. The fluid may alternatively generally comprise, withoutlimitation: any all-purpose cleaner, oil or water based dust inhibitor,anti-static, anti-microbial, antibacterial, sanitizing and deodorizingagent, dusting agent, glass cleaner, furniture polish, leather or vinyltreatment, other cleaning agent, wax, polish or shining agent, softeningagent, friction-enhancing compound, perfumes, dish cleaner, soap, insectrepellent or insect barrier, exfoliator or other personal care product,paint for sponge painting or other application, water out emulsions, oilout emulsions, dust mite killer or repellant, abrasive cleaner, shoepolish, pet sanitation products, etc.

As illustrated in FIG. 2, the preferred spray bottle is a generallycylindrical bottle having an integral bottom 51, sidewall 53, second 55and third 59 sections. A spray cap or nozzle 61 is screwed or pressfitted onto the top of the spray bottle. The spray cap 61 includes apair of opposed flats 63 a, 63 b configured to selectively engageflanges 71 a, 71 b of the fluid reservoir-receiving cradle 36.Alternatively, a system of tabs and grooves could be used to form asimilar locking mechanism. The spray cap 61 could alternatively includea one sided flat button or a tapered button. In addition to theillustrated spray bottle, the fluid reservoir 30 could take a variety offorms including but not limited to an aerosol package, a deformablehandle or reservoir that dispenses fluid by squeezing, a squirt gun or aflexible pouch with an attachable spray nozzle. While the fluidreservoir 30 is illustrated as fitting within the cradle 36 of thehandle portion 24, the fluid reservoir may alternatively completely formthe handle of the system, having only the upper portion of the cleaningsystem attached (i.e. the pivot member and the attachment members).

It should be recognized that opposed flats 63 a, 63 b of the spray cap61 provide for a tight fit within the handle portion 24, and furtherserve to properly orientate the fluid reservoir 30 within the cleaningsystem 20. Alternatively, it is understood that the fluid reservoir 30could include other uniquely designed contours that allow for a matingtight fit within the fluid reservoir-receiving cradle 36.

FIG. 5 better illustrates the bottom 31 of the handle portion 24defining the fluid reservoir-receiving cradle 36. Cradle 36 is generallydefined by a lower support 37, handle portion sidewalls 21 a, 21 b andtwo U-shaped supports or rails 44 and 46 configured to receive the fluidreservoir 30 of the preferred embodiment. In the preferred embodiment,lower support 37 is comprised of a plurality of ribs 39 extending fromthe inner side of rear wall 23 of handle portion 24. The forward ends 43of ribs 39 define the lower support 37 configured to support the bottom51 of the fluid reservoir 30. In the preferred embodiment, ribs 39include a central rib 45 having a length roughly equal to diameter ofthe bottom of the fluid reservoir 30. The remaining ribs 39 defineprogressively shorter lengths, thereby tapering off from the central rib45 and supporting the remainder of the circular bottom of the fluidreservoir 30. As best shown in FIG. 9, a pair of triangular retentiontabs 42 a, 42 b extend along opposed sides of the cradle 36 near thelower support 37. Retention tabs 42 a, 42 b are configured tofrictionally engage and retain the lower sidewall 53 of the fluidreservoir 30. Extending forwardly from the retention tabs 42 a, 42 b,sidewalls 21 a, 21 b further define the sides of the fluidreservoir-receiving cradle 36 and are spaced in a manner to tightly fitaround the sidewall 53 of the fluid reservoir 30.

While in the illustrated preferred embodiment, the fluid reservoir 30 ispress fit or friction fit within the cradle 36 of the handle portion 24,it is recognized that alternative configurations could be utilized toretain the fluid reservoir 30 within the handle portion 24. For example,Velcro® or rubber bands could be included on a segment of the handleportion 24 in order to retain the fluid reservoir 30 within the handleportion 24. Other support structures or retaining features could behingedly or otherwise attached to the handle portion to retain the fluidreservoir with in the handle portion.

Near the forward end of the fluid reservoir-receiving cradle 36 is afirst U-shaped bottleneck receiving support 44. First bottleneckreceiving support 44 is configured to press fit around, receive andretain the fluid reservoir 30 of the preferred embodiment. Asillustrated in FIGS. 6 and 8, first bottleneck receiving support 44 isconfigured to press fit around the fluid reservoir 30 near the junction59 of the second 55 and third 57 sections of the reservoir 30.

Slightly forward of the first bottleneck receiving support 44 is asecond U-shaped spray cap receiving support 46. Spray cap receivingsupport 46 is configured to press fit around, retain and orientate thespray cap 61 of the fluid reservoir 30. As best illustrated in FIG. 7,spray cap receiving support 46 is defined by a pair of flanges 71 a, 71b extending from the inner side of opposed sidewalls 21 a, 21 b. Flanges71 a, 71 b are configured to press fit around flats 63 a, 63 b of fluidreservoir spray cap 61 when the reservoir is placed within the cradle36. The tight fit defined by flanges 71 a, 71 b and flats 63 a, 63 bserves to properly orientate spray cap 61 within the fluidreservoir-receiving cradle 36 such that spray cap 61 faces in adirection away from the cradle 36. Forward of the opening 32, are aplurality of structural support ribs 48 extending forwardly towards thepivot member receiving cavity 50.

Turning now to FIGS. 6 and 11, at the forward end 25 of the bottom 31 ofthe handle portion 24 is a pivot member receiving cavity 50. Pivotmember receiving cavity 50 is defined between integral opposed ears 49a, 49 b located at the forward end 25 of the handle portion 24. Ears 49a, 49 b include opposed grooves 52 a, 52 b on their inner cavity surfaceconfigured to slidably engage the axles 80 a, 80 b of a circular pivotmember 82 during assembly. Grooves 52 a, 52 b have a width that is equalto or slightly wider than the diameter of the axles 80 a, 80 b of thecircular pivot member 82. It is understood that grooves 52 a, 52 b andthe pivot member receiving cavity 50 are configured to accommodate avariety of alternative cleaning pad support members 26 or other cleaningimplements having pivot members 82 attached at their proximal ends.

At the terminal end of the grooves 52 a, 52 b, are pivot holes 54configured to receive the axles 80 a, 80 b of the circular pivot member82 and allow pivotable motion therein. A curved slot 83 extendslaterally from grooves 52 a, 52 b and defines a passage configured toallow the movement of circular pivot retention tabs 85 extending fromthe pivot member 82. On opposed sides of the forward end of the pivotmember receiving cavity 50 are circular pivot retention tab holes 87configured to engage and receive the circular pivot retention tabs 85located on the pivot member 82.

Projecting downwardly from the top 29 of the handle portion 24 into thepivot member receiving cavity 50 is a resiliently biased semi-flexiblepivot engagement tab 38. Engagement tab 38 is comprised of a first end39 attached to the handle portion 24 and a second free end 91 configuredto engage notches 102, 104, 106 on the outer surface of the pivot member82 as will be described in greater detail below.

Attached within the pivot member receiving cavity 50 of the handleportion 24 is the cleaning pad support member 26. Cleaning pad supportmember 26 is comprised of an integral circular pivot member 82, linkingsection 93 and support head generally designated 92. Circular pivotmember 82 includes integral axles 80 a, 80 b on its opposed lateralsides. As best shown in FIG. 11, axles 80 a, 80 b are configured to fitwithin pivot holes 54 and rotatably pivot therein. Pivot member 82 alsoincludes a circular pivot retention tab 95. Circular retention tab 95 isconfigured to fit within retention tab holes 87 and support the systemis in the cleaning position. Pivot member 82 defines three notches orindentations 102, 104, 106 corresponding to alternative positions of thecleaning pad support member 26. A cleaning position notch 102, liquidapplication notch 104 and storage position notch 106 are defined on theexternal surface of the pivot member 82. In general, the preferred pivotassembly requires about between 2-3 lbf of pivot force in order torotate it.

Integral with and extending from the pivot member 82 is the linkingsection 93 and support head 92. In the preferred embodiment, supporthead 92 of cleaning pad support member 26 includes a pair of parallelattachment members or attachment prongs 108 a, 108 b configured toengage the pockets or sleeves 110 a, 110 b of a cleaning pad 28 as isgenerally known in the art. Attachment members 108 a, 108 b may bespaced apart in a variety of configurations, however, in the preferredembodiment, attachment members 108 a, 108 b have a total width of about1.25 inches from opposed outside lateral edges. The preferred attachmentmembers 108 a, 108 b are about 6.75 inches long, about 0.75 inchesthick, and about 0.80 inches wide. Attachment members 108 a, 108 bdefine a rounded leading edge 107 configured for ease of insertion intothe sleeves 110 a, 110 b of cleaning pad 28. It is recognized thatalthough the preferred embodiment illustrates a pair of attachmentmembers 108 a, 108 b multiple configurations may be utilized. Forexample, a single, wider attachment member could be utilized.Alternatively, three or more attachment members could be utilized.

Attachment members 108 a, 108 b include a plurality of spaced cleaningpad retaining tabs, barbs or projections 112 projecting from their uppersurface 105. In the illustrated embodiment, retaining tabs 112 aretriangular-shaped tabs having a first wall 114 extending in a generallyvertical direction from the upper surface of the attachment members 108a, 108 b and a second angled wall 116 sloping from the upper edge of thefirst wall 114 towards the distal end of the attachment members 108 a108 b. Tabs 112 are preferably raised about 0.050 inches from theattachment members 108 a, 108 b. The unique triangular configuration ofthe retaining tabs 112 serves a dual function. The angled wall 116allows for ease of placement of the cleaning pad 28 on the attachmentmembers 108 a, 108 b during assembly, while the vertical first wall 114retains the cleaning pad 28 on the attachment members 108 a, 108 bduring the cleaning motion.

In addition to the unique configuration of the retaining tabs 112, theirorientation on the attachment members 108 a, 108 b also serves tomaintain the cleaning pad 28 on the attachment members 108 a, 108 b. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the retaining tabs 112 are staggered andinclude a leading tab 115, three intermediary tabs 117 and a trailingtab 119. In the illustrated embodiment, each attachment member 108 a,108 b includes five retaining tabs 112. Testing has illustrated thatwhen the retaining tabs 112 are spaced an equal distance from oneanother, their retention function is not as great as when the tabs areplaced in the staggered configuration illustrated in the preferredembodiment. In the preferred embodiment, the first tab is spaced 1.0inch, the second is spaced 2.0 inches, the third 2.5 inches, the fourth3.0 inches and the fifth 4.0 inches from the rounded leading edge 107.

In one embodiment, the attachment members 108 a, 108 b may beexpandable, inflatable, partially inflatable, or include an inflatableportion. The inflatability provides for an improved fit of the cleaningpad 28 on the attachment members 108 a, 108 b as well as facilitatinghands free removal of the cleaning pad 28 from the attachment members108 a, 108 b.

Cleaning pad 28 is generally known in the art and comprised of acombination of fibers defining a cleaning surface 111 and attachmentportion 113. The cleaning pad 28 may, for example, include a pluralityof fluffed nonwoven fabrics made of synthetic resins, which may bewelded to one another. The pad may include fibers constructed from PP,PE, PET fibers in a variety of alternative percentages by weight. In theillustrated embodiment, attachment portion 113 defines a pair of pocketsor sleeves 110 a, 110 b configured to receive the attachment members 108a, 108 b of the cleaning pad support member 26. Cleaning pad 28 ispreferably, a 20 g/sqm spun lace cloth with between 1-4% mineral oilmanufactured by Haso Corporation of Japan. Such cleaning or dusting padsare described in PCT/JP2004/10507 the entirety of which is expresslyincorporated by reference.

When the cleaning system 20 is used, the sleeve-like cleaning pad 28 ismounted over the attachment members 108 a, 108 b so that all of theretaining tabs 112 are within the sleeves 110 a, 110 b. The retainingtabs 112 are, in this configuration, thus capable of being fullyenclosed by the cleaning pad 28, avoiding the possibility of theattachment members 108 a, 108 b scratching delicate furniture or otheritems being contacted.

The cleaning surface 111 of cleaning pad 28 may be comprised of apolymer that allows for the spontaneous transport of aqueous fluids.Such polymers are described in, for example, U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,723,159,5,972,505 and 5,200,248 the disclosures of which are expresslyincorporated by reference.

It should be recognized that the polymer fibers of the cleaning pad cantake a variety of forms to increase various performance characteristicsof the cleaning system 20. Standard circular fibers may be used, as isgenerally known in the art. Alternatively, the individual fibers on thecleaning pad may be lobed in the form of loose tow fibers. The uniquelobed configuration creates channels within the individual fibersenabling improved capillary action on each individual fiber andincreasing the overall cleaning or dusting surface area therebyincreasing the overall efficiency of both wet and dry dusting. Thehigher surface area results in an increase in the proportion ofparticles adhering in the grooves or channels and results in dustparticles being “trapped” within the grooves of the lobed fiber. Thelobed fibers generally exhibit improved dust retention, more efficientwet wiping and longer life than standard circular fibers. Furthermore,the lobed fibers can be made stiffer thereby generating a higher wipingpressure in a smaller contact area. It is understood that the inventivelobed fibers could be comprised of a multitude of polymers with PP, PEor PET being recognized as the most cost effective alternatives.Alternatively acrylic or biodegradable polymers could be utilized.

In another alternative embodiment, the cleaning pad 28 may includestiffer or strut fibers attached to mass of tow fibers. In thisarrangement, the stiffer fibers (usually in the range of about 0.3 mm)carry the majority of the stress applied to the cleaning pad 28. The towmay be linked to the stronger fibers by entanglement at the outer endsof the fiber. The stiffer fibers result in a cleaning pad 28 that isspringy resulting in a more desirable feel of applied force for users.The stiffer fibers can further be utilized to clean difficult areas suchas crevices, blinds or screens. The stiffer fibers have the furtheradvantage in that they keep the tow volume expanded, thereby increasingdust migration into the tow fibers.

In yet another alternative embodiment, the cleaning pad 28 could includeabsorbent materials in particulate form fixed onto the remaining fibersof the cleaning pad 28. The absorbent materials may take the form ofknown super absorbent polymers SAP. The SAPs may be, for example,acrylic based polymers applied as a coating or turned into fibersdirectly. Such commercially available SAPs generally include X-linkedpolyacrylic acids or X-linked starch-acrylic-acid-graft-polymers, thecarboxyl groups of which are partially neutralized with sodium hydroxideor caustic potash. The SAPs may be made by such processes as a solventor solution polymerization method or the inverse suspension or emulsionpolymerization method. Such SAPs are disclosed in, for example, U.S.Pat. No. 6,124,391 the disclosure of which is hereby expresslyincorporated by reference.

The absorbent materials increase the overall absorbency of the fibers,prevent the fibers from packing close together into a fiber mass, andenhance the friction of the fibers. The “string of pearls” arrangementalso allows for strategically placed high absorbency regions on thecleaning pad. For example, if it is desirable to have the forward end ofthe cleaning pad 28 be more absorbent than the remainder of the cleaningpad 28, the forward end could include a higher percentage of theparticulate absorbent materials.

The cleaning pad 28 could also include fibers that are formed intohelices. Such fibers can be formed by drawing fiber bundles over a bladeor heating coaxial bicomponent fibers. The resulting helical fibersexhibit a fluffier texture and more attractive appearance while at thesame time increasing the volume (while using less fiber) and dustretention of the duster. The helical nature of the fibers is alsoadvantageous in that they allow coarse fibers to feel softer due to thespring effect. Furthermore, the fibers gradual loss of the helicalnature, can serve as an indication of the effective life of the cleaningpad.

It should be recognized that none of the aforementioned fiber materialsor configurations are exclusive. The cleaning pad could includestrategic combinations of the various fibers and other known fibers. Inone example, the cleaning pad may be comprised of between 25-100% of thelobed fibers by weight.

Similarly, although the preferred embodiment discloses a single cleaningsurface 111, the invention is in no way limited to such a singlecleaning surface. To the contrary, numerous alternative configurationsare within the scope of the present invention. For example, theinventive pad could include multiple cleaning surfaces, with alternateor similar fiber configurations to accommodate various cleaningfunctions. In one embodiment, a cleaning pad 28 could be two sided withone side of the cloth for dusting and the alternate side of the cleaningpad 28 for cleaning. This could also be accomplished by turning the pad“inside out” to expose a new clean surface. Alternatively, a triangularor other multi-sided cleaning pad 28 could be utilized. Circularcleaning pads are also envisioned and within the scope of the presentinvention. In general, a variety of cleaning pad 28 shapes orconfiguration could be utilized to maximize the various properties ofthe cleaning pad 28 and selected fibers.

As noted above, the orientation and type of fibers utilized on thecleaning pad 28 could include a wide variety of alternatives. Forexample and in no way limiting, the cleaning pad 28 could include agenerally fluffy pad including a flat center strip around the areadefined by the pockets or sleeves 110 a, 110 b. Such an orientation mayincrease the surface area and exhibit a better efficacy. Additionally,the center strip could include an absorbent pillow or tube extendingdown the center of the cleaning pad 28. Such an absorbent pillow couldprovide an area of high absorbency on the cleaning pad 28. Variousalternative combinations are envisioned including, for example, cleaningpads consisting of alternating sections of sponges, feather-likestructures, micro-fibers or cellulose foam. Wood pulp is preferred.

The cleaning pad 28 could also include a fluffy cloth with a hydrophilicadditive to improve the absorbency of water. Such hydrophilic additivesinclude but are not limited to glycerin and glycols. The cleaning pad 28could also be comprised entirely of an absorbent material such as Rayon.

The cleaning pad 28 or cleaning pad support member 26 could also includea piezoelectric crystal to impart an electrostatic charge on thecleaning pad during use to increase dust retention. Such crystals aregenerally known and typically generate a charge when subjected tomechanical stress. Examples of materials that can be used include butare not limited to quartz analogue crystals like berlinite (AlPO₄) andgallium orthophosphate (GaPO₄), ceramics with perovskite ortungsten-bronze structures (BaTiO₃, KNbO₃, LiNbO₃, LiTaO₃, BiFeO₃,Na_(x)WO₃, Ba₂NaNb₅O₅, Pb₂KNb₅O₁₅). Additionally some Polymer materialslike rubber, wool, hair, wood fiber, and silk exhibit piezoelectricityto some extent and may be utilized. Additionally, the polymerpolyvinylidene fluoride, (—CH₂—CF₂—), which exhibits piezoelectricityseveral times larger than quartz may be used.

The cleaning pad 28 may also include a portion of an unbonded webmaterial, as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,858,112, issued Jan. 12, 1999to Stokes et al. and U.S. Pat. No. 5,962,112, issued Oct. 5, 1999 toHaynes et al. or other material such as described by U.S. Pat. No.4,720,415, issued Jan. 19, 1988 to Vander Wielan et al. or any superabsorbent material such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,995,133, issuedFebruary 1991 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,638,569 both issued to Newell, U.S.Pat. No. 5,960,508, issued Oct. 5, 1999 to Holt et al., and U.S. Pat.No. 6,003,191, issued Dec. 21, 1999 to Sherry et al., all of which arehereby expressly incorporated by reference herein, in their entirety.

In one embodiment, the cleaning pad 28 may comprises a spunbond fibernonwoven web having a basis weight of approximately 68 grams per squaremeter. The spunbond fibers may comprise bicomponent fibers having aside-by-side configuration where each component comprises about 50%, byvolume, of the fiber. The spunbond fibers will comprise first and secondpolypropylene components and/or a first component comprisingpolypropylene and a second component comprising propylene-ethylenecopolymer. About 1% or more or less of titanium oxide or dioxide isadded to the fiber(s) in order to improve fiber opacity. The spunbondfiber nonwoven web s thermally bonded with a point unbonded pattern. Thenonwoven web is bonded using both heat and compacting pressure byfeeding the nonwoven web through a nip formed by a pair ofcounter-rotating bonding rolls; the bonding rolls comprise one flat rolland one engraved roll. The bonded region of the nonwoven web comprises acontinuous pattern that corresponds to the pattern imparted to theengraved roll. Further, the bonded region is applied to the web when itpasses through the nip. The bonded region will range betweenapproximately about 27% to about 35% of the area of the nonwoven web andforms a repeating, non-random pattern of circular unbonded regions.Absorbency enhancing or superabsorbent materials, includingsuperabsorbent polymers, powders, fibers and the like may be combinedwith the cleaning pad 28.

Alternatively, the pad 28 comprises a laminate of an air-laid compositeand a spunbond fiber nonwoven web. The nonwoven web may comprisemonocomponent spunbond fibers of polypropylene having a basis weight ofapproximately 14 grams per square meter. The air-laid composite maycomprises from about 85% to about 90% kraft pulp fluff and from about10% to about 15% bicomponent staple fibers. The bicomponent staplefibers may have a sheath-core configuration; the core componentcomprising polyethylene terephthalate and the sheath componentcomprising polyethylene. The air-laid composite has a basis weightbetween about 200 and about 350 grams per square meter and an absorbencyof between about 8 and about 11 grams per gram.

The cleaning pad 28 may also include a portion or side of hydrophilicfibers useful for scrubbing. Additionally, nylon fibers may be used toincrease the coefficient of friction when they become wet. Portions ofthe cleaning pad 28 may be composed of microfibers and ultra-microfibershaving a denier per filament (dpf) less than or equal to about 1.0.

As described, the cleaning pad 28 can be formed by any material ormaterial-forming process known, including woven and non-woven materials,polymers, gels, extruded materials, laminates, layered materials whichare bonded together integrally and thus form a co-material, fusedmaterials, extruded materials, air laying, etc.

The cleaning pad 28 can alternatively be optimized for providing acleaning fluid to the surface, such as with micro capsules orencapsulated fluids or agents. The enhanced surface of the cleaning pad28 can have scrubbing or abrasive qualities. The enhanced surface canalso be formed by a mechanical stamping, bonding, pressing, compression,extrusion, sprayed, sputtered, laminated or other surface forming oraffecting process. The various alternative cleaning solutions discussedabove could be microencapsulated into the cleaning pad such that theyare selectively released by some additional stimulus. It is understoodthat various cleaning solutions microencapsulated into the cleaning padcould be activated by water, another chemical in the fluid reservoir orpressure. The solutions could be dry impregnated. Alternatively, thechemical solutions could be encapsulated in pockets or bubbles on orwithin the pad 28 or on the cleaning media support 26. The pockets couldbe designed to burst and release the cleaning solution upon theapplication of moderate pressure.

It should be understood that the cleaning system 20 may be presentedwith its component parts partially preassembled or unassembled. Duringassembly or manufacture of the cleaning system 20, the ears 49 a, 49 bof the preformed handle portion 24 described above can be forced to flexoutward from each other as the pivot member 82 is inserted therebetweenin the orientation described above. The axles 80 a, 80 b slide along thepath defined by the grooves 52 a, 52 b until they reach the pivot hole54 defined at the terminal end. Axles 80 a, 80 b fit within holes 54thereby defining a pivot joint. The sleeves 110 a, 110 b of the cleaningpad 28 are then placed over the attachment members 108 a, 108 b securingthe cleaning pad to the system.

The circular pivot member 82 accommodates rotational movement of thecleaning pad support member 26 in a range of about 55 to 65 degreesrelative to the longitudinal axis of the handle portion 24. Thepreferred range is ideal for accommodating the alternate fiber lengthsand cloth geometries of the inventive system. Particularly preferred isa range of about 61 degrees. When the cleaning pad support member 26 isfully extended in its cleaning position (FIG. 1), circular retentiontabs 95 fit within retention tab holes 87 and maintain the cleaning padsupport member 26 in its cleaning position.

FIGS. 1, 3, 4, and 10 illustrate the inventive cleaning system in itsalternating positions. FIG. 1 illustrates the cleaning system 20 in itscleaning position. As described above, in the cleaning position thecleaning pad support member 26 extends forwardly, pivot engagement tab38 engages the cleaning position notch 102 of pivot member 82, andretention tabs 95 fit within the retention tab holes 87. Theseengagement or retaining features create at least 2.5 lbf of pivot force.This amount of force is sufficient to maintain the cleaning pad supportmember 26 in its fully extending cleaning position despite any torqueexperienced during normal dusting, drying, or cleaning motions. Thus, inthe cleaning position, a user may manipulate the cleaning system 20 viathe handle portion 24. Additionally, the user may apply the water orother liquid housed within the fluid reservoir 30 directly onto thesurface to be cleaned. The user may insert a finger through the opening32 and depress the spray cap 61 thereby causing the discharge of thefluid housed within the reservoir 30. Due to the orientation of thecleaning system 20 in the cleaning position, the liquid will typicallybe applied directly to the surface to be cleaned in an area behind thecleaning pad 28 when the system is in a horizontal orientation such aswhen dusting a coffee table. Alternatively, a cleaning solution can besprayed onto a vertical surface to be cleaned, such as a window or doormolding.

FIGS. 4 and 10 illustrate the cleaning system 20 in a second liquidapplication position. In order to move the cleaning pad support member26 into the liquid application position a user must hold the handleportion 24 and apply torque to the cleaning pad support member 26 tomove it from the cleaning position illustrated in FIG. 1. As sufficienttorque is applied to overcome the forces of the inventive engagementfeatures, the circular pivot member 82 rotates downwardly into theliquid application position. In the liquid application position, pivotengagement tab 38 engages the liquid application notch 104 of the pivotmember 82 thereby holding the cleaning pad support member 26 is itsangled liquid application state. In the illustrated embodiment, theangle Ø between the cleaning pad support member 26 and the handleportion 24 in the liquid application position, may be between 45° and68°. Preferably, the angle Ø between the cleaning pad support member 26and the handle portion 24 is between 55° and 68° with 63° beingparticularly preferred. This preferred angle takes into considerationthe spray pattern of the fluid reservoir (shown in phantom) in order toachieve liquid application onto the greatest surface area of thecleaning surface 111 of the cleaning pad 28.

During dusting or cleaning a user may repeatedly rotate the cleaning padsupport member 26 from its cleaning position to its liquid applicationposition as needed. Alternatively, as noted above, a user may simplyapply liquid directly to the surface to be cleaned while using thecleaning system 20 in the cleaning position.

FIG. 3 illustrates the storage position of the cleaning system. Asillustrated in FIG. 3, in the storage position the cleaning pad supportmember 26 is rotated backwards such that it is generally parallel to theplane defined by the longitudinal axis of the handle portion 24. In thestorage position, engagement tab 38 engages the storage position notch106 thereby maintaining cleaning pad support member 26 in its foldedposition. In the storage position, the cleaning system 20 may be easilystored into a variety of spaces such as kitchen drawers or cabinets.Alternatively, the system can be hung on a wall using the opening 32 inthe handle portion 24.

As it can be appreciated from the description above the inventionincludes a novel method of adjusting the cleaning pad support member 26.One first obtains the cleaning system 20. While holding the handleportion (and preferably no other portion of the device), one presses thecleaning pad support member 26 against an object (e.g. a wall or afloor) to cause rotation of the cleaning support member 26 relative tothe handle portion 24. In an alternative embodiment, the pivot membermay include a torsion spring or other biasing means to return thecleaning support member 26 to its cleaning position without effort onbehalf of the user.

FIG. 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the cleaning pad 128 ofthe present invention. Cleaning pad 128 is similar to the pad previouslydescribed, however, pad 128 includes tapered fibers 129 on its cleaningsurface 111. As illustrated in FIG. 10, fibers 129 are tapered in amanner such that those fibers 129 closest to the handle portion 24 areshortest. As one moves away from the handle portion 24, the fibers 129become progressively longer in length. The tapered fiber length furtheraccommodates the cleaning system 20 in achieving a maximum cleaningfluid application surface area on the cleaning surface 111, in the fluidapplication position.

FIGS. 12 and 13 illustrate an additional alternative embodiment of thecleaning system. As illustrated by FIGS. 12 and 13, the cleaning fluidreservoir 30 of the previous embodiment has been replaced with aflexible pouch 130. In the alternative embodiment, spray nozzle or cap134, with an angled dip tube 140 may be retained in the handle portion24 as previously described. A user may puncture the seal at a preformedlocation 138 on the pouch with the pump dip tube 140. Alternatively, auser may screw the spray cap 134 onto a threaded pouch fitment 151 orthe spray cap 134 may be directly staked to the pouch 130 during thefilling operation. As illustrated in FIGS. 12 and 13, the cradle of theprevious embodiment has been replaced with a snap-fitting cover 142attached via a living hinge 141 to the handle portion 24. Cover 142secures the pouch 130 within the cleaning system 20.

It is understood that the component parts of the inventive system 20described above may be manufactured and sold separately or together inthe form of a cleaning system or kit. It should be further understoodthe present invention contemplates a variety of additional alternativeconfigurations and component parts which may be attached within thepivot member receiving cavity 50 of the handle portion 24. A widevariety of alternative interchangeable cleaning implements may besubstituted for the cleaning pad support member 26 described above. Thealternative cleaning implements would preferably include a supportmember with a modular design which include a universal pivot member orother attachment member similar to that described in the preferredembodiment such that the alternative implements could be usedinterchangeably with the preferred handle portion 24. For example, andin now way limiting an alternative cleaning implements could include asqueegee for cleaning windows, mirrors or other glass structures, a softsurface cleaner such as a lint roller, a glass cleaner including anindexing refill roll, an insect swatter, a dog brush or other groomingimplement, a scrub brush or other cleaning implement etc. Numerous otherpivotally or moveably attached cleaning implements are also within thescope of the present invention.

Furthermore, although the preferred embodiment illustrates a handleportion 24 pivotally attached to a cleaning pad support 26, it isrecognized that the present invention is in no way limited to such aconstruction. For example, the inventive cleaning system 20 could beconstructed as a single non-movable piece allowing only surface sprayingof the cleaning fluid. Likewise, the cleaning pad support need not bepivotally attached to the handle portion as described in the preferredembodiment. Numerous alternative embodiments that allow for movement ofthe cleaning pad support 26 in relation to the handle portion are withinthe scope of the invention. The cleaning pad support member 26 andhandle portion 24 may alternatively be slidably connected, hingedlyconnected, bendable or otherwise movable into its various desiredorientations. A spring loaded lock switch could be used to allow 180°rotation of the cleaning pad support member 26. The cleaning pad supportmember 26 could include a centrally located pivot member to allow for360° rotation. Alternatively, the handle portion could be rotatable 360°in relation to the cleaning pad support member 26. Additionally, thehandle portion 24 could include an integral or attachable telescopingextension to allow for dusting or cleaning areas outside of a normaluser's reach.

Additionally, the handle portion as described could be eliminatedcompletely and the fluid reservoir could be arranged to form the handleof the cleaning system. The pivotable attachment member could beattached to the upper end of the fluid reservoir. Further, although thespray bottle described herein is a physically separate module, it willbe manifest that the spray bottle may be directly integrated into, orform the handle portion with which it is associated. The reservoir couldhave a plug that could be removed when filling with fluid.

The cleaning pad support could alternatively be connected to the handleportion via a threaded connection. Such an orientation would allow forthe ease of attachment and removal of the numerous alternative cleaningimplements that are within the scope of the present invention. Thecleaning pad support could also be alternatively arranged to rotate ineither a vertical or horizontal direction to accommodate variouscleaning functions. The cleaning system could further include amotorized spinning head for additional efficacy and less effort onbehalf of the consumer.

Although the cleaning fluid delivery system has been described inreference to the fluid reservoir, it is recognized that alternativeconfigurations for delivering cleaning fluid to a surface to be cleanedor to a cleaning media are also within the scope of the presentinvention. For example, the fluid reservoir could be arranged in amanner such the cleaning fluid is sprayed or applied on the back surfaceof a cleaning pad or cloth and allowed to move through the cloth via awicking action. Alternatively, the attachment members or tines 108 a,108 b of the cleaning system could be in fluid communication with thecleaning fluid reservoir such that cleaning fluid may be discharged on acleaning pad 28 via the attachment members 108 a, 108 b. Such a deliverysystem could deliver cleaning fluid through the tip, bottom, top orlateral sides of the attachment members. Alternatively, the liquiddelivery system could include a flip out nozzle or reservoir configuredfor spraying cleaning fluid onto the cleaning media. Such aconfiguration would eliminate the need for a pivoting support member.

Although the best mode contemplated by the inventors of carrying out thepresent invention is disclosed above, practice of the present inventionis not limited thereto. It will be manifest that various additions,modifications and rearrangements of the features of the presentinvention may be made without deviating from the spirit and scope of theunderlying inventive concept.

Moreover, as noted throughout the application the individual componentsneed not be formed in the disclosed shapes, or assembled in thedisclosed configuration, but could be provided in virtually any shape,and assembled in virtually any configuration, so as to provide for acleaning system that includes a cleaning fluid reservoir attached tocleaning implement support. Furthermore, all the disclosed features ofeach disclosed embodiment can be combined with, or substituted for, thedisclosed features of every other disclosed embodiment except where suchfeatures are mutually exclusive.

It is intended that the appended claims cover all such additions,modifications and rearrangements. Expedient embodiments of the presentinvention are differentiated by the appended claims.

1. A cleaning tool comprising: a) a handle portion having an openingconfigured to allow access to a cradle; and b) a cleaning pad supportmember moveably attached to the handle portion.
 2. The cleaning tool ofclaim 1, wherein the support member is moveable between a first cleaningposition and a second cleaning pad liquid application position.
 3. Thecleaning tool of claim 2, further comprising a cleaning fluid dispenserwithin the cradle.
 4. The cleaning tool of claim 3, wherein the cleaningfluid dispenser comprises a pump spray bottle.
 5. The cleaning tool ofclaim 3, wherein the fluid dispenser comprises a flexible pouch and anattachable spray nozzle.
 6. The cleaning tool of claim 1, wherein thecleaning pad support member comprises a pair of parallel attachmentmembers.
 7. The cleaning tool of claim 6, wherein the attachment membersare spaced 1.25 inches apart.
 8. The cleaning tool of claim 6, whereinthe parallel attachment members comprise at least one verticallyextending cleaning pad retaining tab projecting from an upper surface ofthe attachment members.
 9. The cleaning tool of claim 8, wherein theretaining tabs comprise a first wall extending in a generally verticaldirection and a second angled wall sloping from an upper edge of thefirst wall towards a distal end of the attachment members.
 10. Thecleaning tool of claim 1, wherein the cleaning pad support membercomprises a circular pivot member at one end, the circular pivot memberconfigured to fit within a pivot member receiving cavity in the handleportion.
 11. The cleaning tool of claim 10, wherein the circular pivotmember comprises a plurality of notches and the handle comprises asemi-flexible engagement tab projecting downward into the pivot memberreceiving cavity, the engagement tab configured to fit within thenotches for selective pivoting of the cleaning support member.
 12. Thecleaning tool of claim 11, wherein the pivot member comprises a firstnotch corresponding to a cleaning position, a second notch correspondingto a liquid application position, and a third notch corresponding to astorage position.
 13. The cleaning tool of claim 12, wherein the anglebetween the handle portion and cleaning pad support member is between 45and 68 degrees in the liquid application position.
 14. The cleaning toolof claim 12, wherein the angle between the handle portion and cleaningpad support member is between 55 and 68 degrees in the liquidapplication position.
 15. The cleaning tool of claim 3, wherein thefluid dispenser comprises a mechanism configured to align the fluiddispenser within the cradle.
 16. The cleaning tool of claim 15, whereinthe mechanism is a cap comprised of flats, the flats configured to alignthe fluid dispenser within the cradle.
 17. The cleaning tool of claim16, wherein the cradle comprises at least one flange, the at least oneflange configured to align the cap within the cradle via selectiveengagement with the flats.
 18. The cleaning tool of claim 1, furthercomprising a cleaning pad removably attached to the cleaning pad supportmember.
 19. The cleaning tool of claim 19, wherein the cleaning padsupport member comprises at least one longitudinally extendingattachment prong and the cleaning pad defines at least one sleeveconfigured to receive the attachment prong and secure the cleaning padto the cleaning pad support member.
 20. A cleaning system including: (a)a cleaning tool comprising: a handle defining an interior recess forreceiving a fluid reservoir; and a cleaning media support pivotablyattached to the handle, the support capable of pivoting rearwardly froma cleaning position; (b) a cleaning media attached to the cleaning mediasupport; and (c) a fluid reservoir attached to the handle in the cradle,the reservoir capable of applying fluid to a surface to be cleaned andto the surface of the cleaning media.
 21. The cleaning system of claim20, wherein the cleaning media support comprises a pair of parallellaterally extending attachment prongs.
 22. The cleaning system of claim21, wherein the attachment prongs comprise a plurality of projectionsextending generally vertically from the prongs.
 23. The cleaning systemof claim 22, wherein the projections comprise an angled side slopingaway from the handle.
 24. The cleaning system of claim 20, wherein thesupport comprises a pivot member at one end the pivot member including aplurality of indentations configured to receive a semi-flexibleengagement tab projecting downward from the handle.
 25. The cleaningsystem of claim 24, wherein the pivot member comprises a firstindentation defining a cleaning position, a second indentation defininga liquid application position, and a third indentation defining astorage position.
 26. The cleaning system of claim 25, wherein the anglebetween the handle and cleaning media support is between 45 and 68degrees in the liquid application position.
 27. The cleaning system ofclaim 25, wherein the angle between the handle and cleaning mediasupport is between 55 and 68 degrees in the liquid application position.28. The cleaning system of claim 25, wherein the angle between thehandle and cleaning media support is about 63 degrees in the cleaningposition.
 29. The cleaning system of claim 20, wherein the fluidreservoir comprises a spray nozzle and fluid container integral with thehandle.
 30. The cleaning system of claim 20, wherein the fluid reservoircomprises opposed flat sidewalls, the sidewalls configured to align thefluid reservoir within the recess.
 31. A cleaning kit comprising: ahandle defining a cleaning fluid reservoir receiving bay; a cleaning padsupport pivotally attached to the handle, the support capable ofpivoting from a cleaning position to a storage position wherein thesupport is substantially folded upon the handle; a cleaning pad having acombination of fibers and at least one nonwoven sheet; and a fluidreservoir attached to the handle within the bay the reservoir comprisinga spray cap having opposed flats configured to align the spray capwithin the receiving bay.
 32. A device for cleaning a surfacecomprising: a handle; a pivot joint connected to the handle; a cleaninghead portion connected to the pivot joint and capable of folding beneaththe handle.
 33. The device of claim 32, further comprising a fluiddispenser connected to the device and able to dispense fluid upon thecleaning head.
 34. A cleaning tool for wet, damp or dry cleaningcomprising: a) a handle portion defining a cradle for a fluid reservoir;and b) a cleaning implement support member attached to the handleportion.
 35. The cleaning tool of claim 34, wherein the cleaningimplement support member is movably attached to the handle portion. 36.The cleaning tool of claim 35, wherein the cleaning implement supportmember is pivotally attached to the handle portion.
 37. The cleaningtool of claim 35, wherein the cleaning implement support member isslidably attached to the handle portion.
 38. The cleaning tool of claim34, wherein the handle portion has a top, a bottom and an openingconfigured to allow access into the cradle.
 39. The cleaning tool ofclaim 35, wherein the cleaning implement support member is moveablebetween a first cleaning position and a second cleaning pad liquidapplication position.
 40. The cleaning tool of claim 34, furthercomprising a detachable cleaning fluid dispenser within the cradle. 41.The cleaning tool of claim 36, wherein the cleaning implement supportmember comprises a circular pivot member at one end, the circular pivotmember configured to fit within a pivot member receiving cavity in thehandle portion.
 42. The cleaning tool of claim 41, wherein the circularpivot member comprises a plurality of notches and the handle comprises asemi-flexible engagement tab projecting downward into the pivot memberreceiving cavity, the engagement tab configured to fit within thenotches for selective pivoting of the cleaning support member.
 43. Thecleaning tool of claim 42 wherein the engagement of the semi-flexibleengagement tab into the notches produces and auditory signal.
 44. Thecleaning tool of claim 36, wherein a pivot point on the handle portionis located below a horizontal plane defined by a fluid reservoir withinthe cradle.